Leading housebuilder Barratt Homes North West has donated £1,000 to Barrow URC Primary School to help cover the costs of the training and introduction of its new school dog.
As part of its steps to help encourage engagement and improve the mental health and wellbeing of its pupils, the Barrow-based school opted to bring in a school dog to be a part of its Nurture Hub; a dedicated area that pupils can visit and discuss their problems in confidence.
Ludo, the miniature cockapoo, is currently undergoing specialist training so that he is the ideal companion for the pupils throughout their school day, with the donation from Barratt Homes North West helping cover these costs.
Nicola McArdle, Headteacher at Barrow URC Primary School, said: “We are excited to introduce you to a new member of Barrow URC Primary School. Ludo is a five-month-old miniature cockapoo who, with the support of the staff and The Dog Mentor Programme, is training to become our school dog and is set to become an integral part of our school family.
“This is a growing movement in many schools and provides both a source of learning and fun! ‘Wellbeing dogs’ are a source of comfort and relaxation for both the children and the staff who may need someone to speak to.
“There is much evidence that children who struggle with relationships or managing their own emotions gain a great deal from spending time with a pet. We would like to say a huge thank you to Barratt Homes for its donation!”
The Dog Mentor began in 2013 and has shared its knowledge and experience with a host of schools throughout the UK and Europe, with Ludo being the latest student of the renowned programme. The aim of the programme is to build upon the benefits of the human-animal bond by providing children with positive experiences that can help them educationally, developmentally, emotionally and socially.
Robert Holbrook, Managing Director at Barratt Homes North West, said: “As a five star housebuilder, we like to lead the way, not only in the homes that we build but in the support and contributions to the local communities in which we build.
“We are happy to support Barrow URC Primary School once again in its latest venture, and we believe that its brand new Nurture Hub will bring great benefits to the school children. Taking care of one’s mental health is of the utmost importance and we are proud to have helped Barrow URC to introduce Ludo to the school.”
Barrow URC Primary School is located close to the homebuilder’s The Brooks development on Whalley Road, which is now open on an appointment only basis.
